EVACUATION WARNINGS are now in effect for areas along the east coast in the projected path of Hurricane Irene. Irene is a Category 2 Hurricane. An 11 a.m. update shows the storm has lost a little strength. Sustained winds are now 105 MPH (down from 110 MPH) and is not expected in intensify any further before landfall. This is STILL A VERY DANGEROUS HURRICANE with millions of people in the path.  For the first time since 1985, officials in Ocean City, MD have issued evacuation warnings. The problem with evacuation warnings is people often don't heed the warning. Officials cannot remove every resident in the path of Hurricane Irene. If those in the path choose not to evacuate there will be no search and rescue for them during and in the immediate aftermath of the storm. Those who choose to stay and ignore the evacuation warning risk their own lives as well as the lives of those rescue workers. This is a powerful and damaging storm. Reports are the Outer Banks of North Carolina could undergo landscape alterations from this storm. Heed the advice and head inland NOW! As we approach the imminent storm, roads, highways, and gasoline stations will become heavily congested. It's a nice weekend to head west!